Kansas City License Office to Reopen Jan. 28 with New Operator After Temporary Closure
On Jan. 22, 2026, the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that the Kansas City License Office will reopen under new management on Wednesday, Jan. 28, following a temporary closure to switch contractors. The DOR accepted a new management proposal from Paul J. Wrabec Co., Inc., awarding the company a contract to operate the office at 1161 Emanual Cleaver Boulevard in Kansas City. Under Missouri’s licensing system, local DMV offices are run by independent contractors selected through a competitive bid process, while the state oversees them. The changeover required the office to close briefly so the new contractor could assume responsibility.
During the transition period, the Kansas City License Office remained closed, prompting DOR to direct customers to other nearby locations for their motor vehicle and driver licensing needs. The department suggested four alternatives: the Grandview License Office at 1102 Main Street, the Lee’s Summit License Office at 314 Southwest Blue Parkway, the North Kansas City License Office at 2421 Burlington Drive Suite B, and the Raytown License Office at 6138 Raytown Trafficway. Customers could also conduct many transactions online, such as vehicle registration renewals and driver’s license updates, or call the DOR’s hotline to get assistance. DOR emphasized that a full list of offices and their hours is available on its website.
The Kansas City office is scheduled to reopen on Jan. 28 with hours of operation Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The phone number will remain (816) 897‑5950. Under the new contract, Paul J. Wrabec Co., Inc. will retain the processing fees collected for each transaction, as is standard in Missouri, where license offices are self‑funded and the state receives no portion of the fees. The department notes that awarding contracts through an open bid process ensures value and quality service for Missouri taxpayers.
License offices provide essential services such as issuing driver licenses and ID cards, registering vehicles, processing title transfers and handling tax payments. A smooth transition is important because the Kansas City office serves a high‑volume urban area. DOR officials said they appreciate customers’ patience during the closure and look forward to offering improved service under the new operator. Residents seeking more information or planning to visit should check the DOR’s license office locator for updates on hours, wait times and services available at each location. The department encourages customers to use online services when possible to save time, especially as offices reopen after the contractor change.